FATE REWRITTEN.....

12. Silent Confessions

The days that followed settled into a warm, comforting rhythm. Each morning, Soobin and Yeonjun walked to school together, shoulders brushing as they whispered about everything and nothing at all. A bond so natural and unspoken it felt like they had always been this way.

During school breaks, they'd study together or steal moments in the cafeteria where Soobin made sure Yeonjun was eating properly. True to his promise, Soobin had taken on the role of Yeonjun's unofficial caretaker. Each evening, he would prepare meals he knew Yeonjun loved-soft tteokbokki, savory kimchi fried rice, warm bowls of miso soup-dishes that reminded him of simpler, happier times. Yeonjun's expressions of surprise and joy each night were more than worth the extra effort for Soobin.

And on weekends, they often found themselves at Huening's house, the warmth of Kai's mother's presence wrapping around them all like a protective blanket. Beomgyu and Taehyun would join them, filling the house with laughter, games, and conversations that stretched into the early hours of the morning. Their group had quickly become a refuge for Yeonjun, a place where he could simply be himself.

But despite the joyful moments, sleep remained elusive for Yeonjun. The nightmares still haunted him, flashes of dark rooms and whispered threats that yanked him from sleep, leaving him cold and drenched in fear. Soobin quickly became aware of yeonjun's restless nights. Every time Yeonjun jolted awake, breathing hard and trembling, Soobin would quietly reach over, wrapping his arms around him, whispering words of comfort until Yeonjun's breaths evened out. These nights had become a ritual: Soobin's steady heartbeat would lull Yeonjun back to sleep, his presence a grounding force that reassured Yeonjun that he was safe.

In moments like these, Soobin could feel the weight of his growing feelings for Yeonjun pressing against his chest, a silent confession held in every touch and whispered word. He wanted to tell Yeonjun everything, to confess that his heart had belonged to him since they'd reunited, maybe even long before then. But every time he thought about the words, fear clawed at him. What if Yeonjun doesn't feel the same way? The thought of losing their friendship, of pushing Yeonjun away, was a risk he couldn't bring himself to take. So, instead, he let his actions speak for him, hoping Yeonjun could see everything he wasn't saying.

And in his heart, Yeonjun knew. Soobin's eyes, gentle and unwavering, held an affection he couldn't mistake. There were times when Soobin would look at him as if he were the only person in the world, as if Yeonjun's presence alone was enough to bring him joy. Those looks made Yeonjun's heart flutter in a way that was both thrilling and terrifying. He knew Soobin cared for him deeply, maybe even loved him. But he, too, feared the consequences of saying it out loud.

What if I'm wrong? What if admitting it changes everything? The questions gnawed at him, leaving him uncertain and hesitant. So, he decided to wait, to give them both time to understand what they meant to each other. He wanted to know every part of Soobin, to make sure he truly understood him before taking the leap.

As weeks turned into a month, their connection only grew stronger. Yeonjun found himself laughing more, feeling lighter and more at ease. He began to share pieces of himself he'd kept hidden for so long, opening up about his dreams, his fears, his memories. He could feel the walls around his heart crumbling, bit by bit, under Soobin's patient presence.

One afternoon, as they sat on the school rooftop watching the sun dip below the horizon, Yeonjun glanced at Soobin. The golden light framed his face, casting a soft glow over his sharp features. He looked peaceful, lost in thought as he gazed out at the city below. Yeonjun felt a surge of affection, a warmth that spread through his chest as he looked at the boy who had become his sanctuary.

"Soobin-ah," Yeonjun said softly, breaking the silence. Soobin turned to him, his expression softening as he met Yeonjun's gaze.

"Hahh?" Soobin replied, his voice gentle.

"Thank you... for everything," Yeonjun said, his words quiet but filled with sincerity. "I don't think I could have made it through these weeks without you."

Soobin's eyes softened, a small smile playing at his lips. "You don't have to thank me, Jun-ah. You know I'd do anything for you."

Yeonjun's heart raced at the words, but he managed a smile in return, nodding as he looked away, hoping Soobin couldn't see the blush creeping up his cheeks. He wanted to say more, to tell Soobin just how much he meant to him, but the words got caught in his throat, his fears still holding him back.

That night, as they lay side by side in bed, Yeonjun's insomnia once again threatened to keep him awake. But like every time, the familiar restlessness was tempered by the presence beside him. Soobin, as always, was there, one arm draped over Yeonjun, his steady breaths a comforting rhythm. Yeonjun closed his eyes, listening to the quiet hum of Soobin's breathing, feeling the warmth of his hand resting against his own. A wave of calm washed over him, and he found himself drifting off to sleep without the heavy weight of fear.

When morning came, Soobin woke to find Yeonjun still nestled close, a peaceful expression on his face. Soobin smiled, his heart swelling as he brushed a gentle hand over Yeonjun's hair. In that quiet moment, Soobin felt certain of one thing: he was willing to wait as long as it took, to be by Yeonjun's side in whatever way he needed.

Even if they never spoke the words, he knew their bond was deeper than any confession could capture.

And as Yeonjun stirred awake, meeting Soobin's gaze with a sleepy smile, he, too, felt the truth settle within him. For now, it was enough to share these silent moments, knowing that they didn't have to rush. Their hearts had found each other, and that was all they needed.

End of Chapter 12

09/10/2024

to be continued....